Issuu

AUGUST 2026 | FALL

Inside This Issue: 18

Featured

New World Screw Worm Population on the Rise

Content Advertisers Index.................................................. 55 Board of Directors.................................................. 2 Business Cards............................................... 43, 45

The Most Recommended Firearms for Hunting

Dream Genomics: Deep into Phase Two of CWD Cutting Edge Technology.......................... 35 Industry Event Calendar...................................... 23

Minnesota Deer Farmers Still Face Dilemmas with Double Fencing Rule The Most Productive Way to Start and Operate a Hunting Preserve Alabama First State to Move Deer Outside of CWD Management Zones

Magazine Advertising Information................... 54 Membership Application..................................... 56 Meet Troy Zacchini - The Future NADeFA Executive Director................................................ 16 PDFA Pickleball Tournament & Farm Tour..... 10 President’s Message.............................................. 6 Puzzle Page............................................................ 53 SAVE THE DATE - PA Eastern Fall Classic Stocker Buck Auction........................................ 4 SAVE THE DATE - PA Winter Benefit Auction....15

WINTER MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 17TH DEADLINE, 2026

BOARD OF OFFICERS & DIRECTORS PRESIDENT

VICE PRESIDENT

Deer Wizard LLC 285 Dunwoody Rd Williamsport, PA 17701 Cell Phone: 484-951-3229 Email: deerwizard64@gmail.com

Jarrid Barry (2026) Powder Ridge Outfitters PO Box 6 Hollidaysburg, PA 16648 Cell: (717) 821-0669 Email: powderridgeoutfitters@ gmail.com

Jarrid Barry (2026)

Josh Newton (2028)

TREASURER

SECRETARY

Rocky Top Whitetails 6285 Engletown Road Honey Brook , PA 19344 Phone: (717) 768-0645 Email: samuel@keystonesteelstructures.com

Walnut Ridge Whitetails 142 Churchtown Rd. Narvon, Pa. 17555 Office: (717) 768-3471 Email: wrwhitetails@yahoo.com

Samuel King

Lloyd Stoltzfus (2026)

Kelsey Showalter

Office Administrator PO Box 66 Morgantown, PA 19543 Office: 717-801-0533 Email: office@padfa.com

Ben Spangler (2028)

Tucker Sellinger (2025)

Mike Lapp (2028)

Jason Stefanowicz (2027)

John Ervin Stoltzfus

Kelli Nelson (2028)

LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL

Milliron & Goodman Governmental Relations 200 N. Third St. Harrisburg, Pa. 17101 Office: 717-232-5322 Email: andy@millirongoodman.com

Milliron & Goodman Government Relations Kerry Lange, Senior Associate 200 N. Third St. Harrisburg, Pa. 17101 Office: 717-232-5322 Email: kerry@millirongoodman.com

Big Vision Whitetails 10040 Cardinal Drive Orrstown, PA 17244 Cell: (717) 816-4319 Email: benspangler1993@yahoo.com

Nationwide Scents 420 Weaver Road Millersburg, PA 17061 Cell: (570) 425-2855 Email: mlapp@nationwidescents.com

Rocky Ridge Whitetails 6099 Wanner Road Narvon, PA 17555 Phone: (717) 768-3336 Email: rockyridgewts@gmail.com

Andy Goodman, Partner

The Valley Deer Farm 1506 Wells Road Williamsport, PA 17702 Cell: 570-660-0143 Email: tuckersellinger@aol.com

Awesome Whitetails 990 French Hill Road Middleburg Center, PA 16935 Cell: (570) 418-3109 Email: awesomewhitetails2@gmail.com

Deer Forest Farms 903 Deer Forest Road York, PA 17406 Cell Phone: (717) 515-4049 Email:deerforestfarms@gmail.com

Kerry Lange, Senior Associate

PDFA • PO Box 394, Harrisburg, PA 17108 • 717-801-0533 • office@padfa.com • www.padfa.com

S r e t r d u n c u k h T Cruiser / Major League / Express / Sudden Impact

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PA Eastern Fall Classic Stocker Buck Auction

August 29th, 2026

Noon - 4 PM • Toftrees Golf Resort, 1 Country Club Ln. State College, PA 16803 Join the Pennsylvania Deer Farmers Association on Saturday, August 29, for our updated Fall event format. With the addition of the PA Eastern Winter Classic Breeder Auction and Fundraiser, the Board of Directors has transitioned the 2026 stocker auction to an online sale format. While we will not be hosting a traditional trade show this year, the event will still feature a General Membership Meeting, guest speakers, and lunch for attendees. This will be a great opportunity to network with fellow deer farmers, ranch owners, and industry supporters while also receiving important updates regarding Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture regulations affecting animal movement and commerce throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage all members and producers to attend, connect with fellow breeders, and stay engaged as our industry continues to evolve. More details regarding speakers, and online auction information will be announced soon. For more information contact: Josh Newton • 484-951-3229 • deerwizard64@gmail.com Or Kelsey Showalter • 717-801-0533 • office@padfa.com 4

President’s Message Fa l l

2 0 2 6

As summer moves along, fawns are growing, bucks are putting on inches, and another fall season is quickly approaching. I hope everyone has had a successful fawning season and that the hard work put into your breeding, nutrition, herd health, and land management programs is paying off. This President’s Message is a little different for me, because it will be my last. I informed the PDFA Board of Directors a few months ago that following our PA Eastern Fall Classic Stocker Sale on August 29, I will be stepping down as President of the Pennsylvania Deer Farmers Association. The Board will nominate and elect a new President to lead the organization moving forward. I will continue serving on the Board and finish the remaining two years of my current term, and I look forward to supporting our new President and the direction of the Association. I have had the privilege of serving PDFA in leadership for nearly 11 years as Treasurer, Vice President, and President, including approximately six years as President. It has truly been a humbling experience to have the opportunity to lead an organization that represents an industry and people that have been such an important part of my life. Throughout those years, my belief in what PDFA represents has only grown stronger. Our mission of preserving, protecting, and promoting Pennsylvania deer farming is about more than any one issue, event, or person. It is about healthy animals. It is about science and continuing to implement new technologies to improve herd health and combat disease. It is about preserving farms, improving habitat, supporting rural economies, and creating opportunities for the next generation of deer farmers. It is also about advocating for our producers and making sure policymakers understand who we are and what our industry contributes to Pennsylvania. And finally its a bout peeling away some of the regulatory drag that has cut our industry in half over the last decade.

Advancing CWD Science Here in Pennsylvania Here at home, we continue working with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and advocating for the use of new science and technology in CWD management. One particularly important opportunity is grant funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture for GEBV testing. Genetic technology and the continued advancement of CWD-related science give our industry tools that simply did not exist years ago.

August 29 – Join Us in State College Before my time as President comes to an end, I hope to see many of you at the PA Eastern Fall Classic Stocker Sale on August 29 at Toftrees Resort in State College. We are introducing a new format for this year’s event. We’ll hold our membership meeting, enjoy lunch together, and have the Stocker Sale, giving buyers and sellers an opportunity to come together around some great Pennsylvania bucks. But just as importantly, it will be a chance to spend some time together. Come talk deer, catch up with fellow producers, participate in your Association, and enjoy the fellowship that has always been one of the best parts of this industry.

Thank You As I prepare to turn the presidency over to someone new, I want to sincerely thank everyone who has supported me and PDFA during my years in leadership. Thank you to our members, Board members, officers, volunteers, sponsors, industry partners, legislators, agency representatives, and everyone who has taken the time to participate and help move this organization forward. Stepping down as President does not mean I am stepping away from this industry or from the people in it. I intend to continue helping Pennsylvania deer farmers grow their businesses, improve their operations, and create new opportunities wherever I can. There is still plenty of work ahead for PDFA, and I am excited to see where new leadership takes the organization. I hope our membership will give the next President the same support and opportunity you have given me. Until then, enjoy the rest of your summer, weaning some big-time fawns, finish growing some giant bucks, and I hope to see you in State College on August 29. Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving as your President.

Respectfully Submitted, Josh Newton President Pennsylvania Deer Farmers Association

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PDFA Pickleball Tournament & Farm Tour On July 18, the PDFA held its summer pickleball tournament at Rocky Top Whitetails, bringing together approximately 55 people for a full day of pickleball, farm tours, great food, and fellowship. The six teams competing in the tournament actually got their start months earlier at the 2026 PA Eastern Winter Classic. Custom pickleball paddle sets were donated to the PDFA and sold during the auction. Each winning bidder received their custom paddle set and, along with it, an entry into the summer pickleball tournament. On July 18, those teams came together at Rocky Top Whitetails to compete. The group enjoyed lunch before heading out for farm tours at Rocky Ridge Whitetails and Walnut Ridge Whitetails, followed by a tour of Rocky Top Whitetails. The pickleball tournament wrapped up later that afternoon, and around 5:00 p.m. everyone gathered for a steak dinner. It turned into a great day for the PDFA community—touring some outstanding Pennsylvania deer farms, raising money for the association, playing a little pickleball, eating some great steaks, and simply spending time together. And we’re planning to do it again in 2027. Custom pickleball paddle sets will once again be donated and auctioned at the 2027 PA Eastern Winter Classic, with the winning bidders earning their spot in next summer’s tournament. So, if you want to play some pickleball, eat a great steak, tour some of the top deer farms in Pennsylvania, and enjoy a day with fellow PDFA members, make sure you bid on a paddle set at the 2027 Winter Classic. Stay tuned for more details!

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MEET TROY ZACCHINI THE FUTURE NADEFA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR By: Gail Veley • Sponsored by The Alabama Deer Association

roy Zacchini, the current Associate Executive Director of NADeFA, is prepared to fill some big shoes as NADeFA Executive Director Shawn Schafer moves towards retiring from a job he’s dearly loved and served with great pride. This fall, Zacchini will officially step into his new role. “I’m just very grateful the board thinks I’m up to the task.” Zacchini, 48, said. “I would like to think a lot of people would like the opportunity to be the executive director of NADeFA. I’m humbled that the board thinks I’m capable, and they feel optimistic that they found who they’ve been looking for.” It was a little luck combined with fate that brought Zacchini, owner since 2000 of Troy Hunt’s Club in Forest Home Alabama, and Schafer together. After flying to Washington D.C. on deer farming legislative matters in the spring of 2025, the two discovered their gates to catch a flight home were right next to each other. “Shawn started sharing with me what his job was, and that he was thinking about retiring,” Zacchini said. “I asked him if he thought it was something I could do.” Shortly after that time, Schafer has been steadfastly preparing Zacchini to take on the monumental role of executive director. Zacchini is very comfortable with public speaking, having worked with legislatures, led bible studies and also worked as a hunting guide before starting his own breeding and hunting operation. He understands what being in the spotlight is all about, being a descendant of the famous Italian “Zacchini Brothers” circus performers from the 1930’s and 1940’s, who spent time with both the

Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey circuses. Edmundo and Hugo Zacchini were the daring performers behind their flying human cannon ball act, deemed the most dangerous profession one would possibly have, having only a thin landing net between them and certain death. The Zacchini’s, who resided in Tampa, Florida, also walked high wires, performed trapeze acts, rode horses and dazzled audiences from all over the world. Troy Zacchini plans to bring the same passion and energy his ancestors brought to their daring circus acts, to his role as Executive Director for NADeFA. His wife Angela and their two sons, Tavio, 17, and Teovanni, 15, are excited for their father to take

this next step. Zacchini received a bachelor’s degree in biology in 2000, from Stetson University in Deland, Florida. He has spent the better part of his life living in Alabama, where he has enjoyed being a lifelong bow and gun hunter. “NADeFA feels confident that Troy will do a great job,” Schafer said. “He has the experience and intestinal fortitude needed to carry the torch as we in the deer industry navigate the ever-changing trends and regulations. We welcome him fully and look forward to everyone else doing the same.”

New World Screw Worm Population on the Rise

By: Gail Veley • Sponsored by the Southeast Trophy Deer Association

parasitic fly that was eradicated from the United States in the early 1980’s has re-emerged and is now affecting several areas of Mexico and parts of Texas. The New World screwworm, a greenish-gray fly with distinctive red eyes, lays its eggs in the open wounds, cuts or lesions of living animals. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae (maggots) feed on the animal’s living tissue for approximately seven days, causing severe damage as they grow. After reaching maturity, the larvae leave the wound, pupate, and eventually emerge as adult flies, continuing the cycle by infesting other animals. A single female screwworm can lay up to 300 eggs in a single event, allowing infestations to spread rapidly. If an infestation goes undetected it is often fatal to the affected animal, said Dr. Juan Campos, DVM, Assistant Professor in the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences and the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida. “The screwworm can affect a wide range of warm-blooded species, including livestock, dogs, hogs and humans. One of the first signs is a lesion that doesn’t heal, grows rapidly, and has a distinct, unpleasant and recognizable odor. The lesion can progress quickly, expanding from the size of a ping pong ball to that of a baseball within just 24 hours. However, when detected early and treated promptly, affected animals often have a good chance of survival. Administering an appropriate dose of approved antiparasitic medications can effectively treat infestations, while strategic usage can significantly reduce the risk of new cases. “Treating captive-raised deer will be particularly challenging, as they are not as tame as regular

livestock,” said Dr. Campos. “If the fly spreads, new management efforts may increase costs for producers. Additional personnel might be needed to monitor herds and identify cases early.” A breakthrough in screwworm control occurred in the 1960’s through an eradication program that included large-scale releases of sterile flies. Scientists discovered that the female screwworm mates only once in their lifetime. Based on this finding, they developed the Sterile Insect Technique, which involved mass-producing, sterilizing, and releasing male screwworm flies into the wild. No viable offspring were then produced, causing a population decline. Although the effort took approximately two decades to achieve its objective, it was ultimately successful, leading to the eradication of the screwworm from the U.S. and much of North America. The parasite was not detected again until cases were reported on a cattle operation in Mexico, in November of 2024.

While the re-emergence of the screwworm is concerning, Dr. Campos emphasized that awareness, surveillance, and prompt reporting remain the most effective tools for controlling its spread. “People should be vigilant, but they should also understand that this is a manageable situation,” Dr. Campos said. “The fly cannot survive prolonged cold winters, which limits its ability to establish populations in northern regions. Producers and veterinarians should contact their state Dept. of AG or animal health authorities immediately if they suspect a case. No one will be penalized for reporting an infestation. Communication is essential, and no one should hesitate to reach out.” Monitoring the movement of the screwworm remains a priority for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), which continues to coordinate public outreach efforts. To learn more about the New World screwworm, visit the APHIS website. www:screwworm.gov.

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Upcoming Whitetail and Cervid Events PDFA Magazine Deadlines 2026 Spring: February 17th Summer: May 19th Fall: August 11th Winter: November 17th

Whitetail Deer Farmers of Ohio Convention - Aug 13-14, 2026 Illinois Deer Farmers Fall Picnic - Aug 15th - Carlyle, IL Pennsylvania Deer Farmers Association Fall Auction - Aug 29th - State College, PA Southern Top 30 - Aug 20-21, 2026 - Louisiana Whitetails of Louisiana - Aug 21-22, 2026 - Marksville, LA TDA Annual Convention - Aug 28-29, 2026 - San Antonio, TX North Dakota Deer Ranchers Summer Picnic - Aug 30, 2026 - Towner, ND Iowa Whitetail Deer Farmers Winter Meeting - Feb 27, 2027 - Waterloo, IA Pennsylvania Deer Farmers Association Winter Benefit Auction - Feb 26-27

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THE MOST RECOMMENDED FIREARMS FOR HUNTING

By: Gail Veley • Sponsored by the Whitetails of Oklahoma

hoosing a firearm for hunting comes down to a few important considerations. These include how rapidly you may need to shoot, the desired ballistics or projection and flight distance of your ammunition, recoil and ease of handling. While there are just as many gun variations as there are opinions as to the best one, perhaps the best firearm for hunting whitetail is a .30-30 Winchester rifle, offers Chris Ezell, owner of Dangerous Whitetails of Oklahoma in Chelsea, Oklahoma. As a teenager, Ezell inherited his grandfather’s .30-30. He still remembers the thrill of being handed a deeply treasured rifle that to this day, he faithfully uses for whitetail hunting.

The .30-30, ideal for hunting medium sized game such as deer and bear from 150 to 200 yards away, uses a lever-action round and was first available in 1895. Known for its smokeless powder, it is today a popular “go-to” choice for vast numbers of hunters. In addition to the .30-30, variations of Winchester rifles such as the .270, introduced in 1925, and the .243, introduced in 1955, may offer flatter bullet trajectories and longerrange accuracy in open country for bigger sized game like elk. While the .270 can be ideal for adults, the .243 is more often recommended for youth hunters. Other rifles, such as a 410-shotgun, are more light weight with almost no recoil, and used primarily for home defense, small game hunting, pigeon hunting and wildlife management. “You want to be comfortable using various types of firearms because of the all the different scenarios you can find when you’re out hunting,” Ezell, 48, said. “Whether it’s heavy brush areas or areas without long shots, or wide-open areas where a shot needs to fly longer and flatter, you want to be set up to aim for the neck rather than shoulder to not damage the meat.” The invention of the gun can be traced back to 10th Century China, when gunpowder projectiles were mounted on spears for portable fire lances. By the 15th Century rudimentary firearms were instrumental in the demise of the Byzantine Empire, leading to

the establishment of Europe and the colonization of America, Africa and Oceania. The 19th Century saw a clear acceleration in the development of what today is the modern gun. For the modern-day hunter, ease of handling any firearm accurately also includes an ideal shooting technique, said Jason Stefanowicz of Awesome Whitetails in Middlebury, Pennsylvania. Having learned to shoot at age 22 from a former Marine sniper who at that time was in his 40’s, Stefanowicz remembers one important take-away. “It’s all about the breathing,” he said. “Most people tend to hold their breath when they shoot. If you exhale as you’re shooting, you won’t move around as much.” Stefanowicz, 52, also strongly believes in investing in the best scope you can afford. “That seems to be the Number One thing people cheap out on,” he said. “When it’s morning and evening and generally darker, you can see through a higher quality scope so much better. It can make all the difference.” In terms of providing or lending the most straight forward firearm to his hunting clients, Brandon Bollinger of 2 Brothers Whitetail in Loranger, Louisiana, prefers the .270 or the .308. “Most folks can handle them fairly easily and they work well in lots of different scenarios,” he said.

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Minnesota Deer Farmers Still Face Dilemmas with Double Fencing Rule

By: Gail Veley • Sponsored by the Minnesota Deer Farmers Association

ut of the 70 or so deer farms still operating in the State of Minnesota, nine farms are still struggling to comply with a double fencing recommendation, which became effective in September of 2024 by the amendment of Statute 35.155. It changed virtually everything for Minnesota deer farmers when it became enforced, including the inability to start new deer farms or sell an existing farm to anyone but immediate family, along with the recommendation to erect a double fence around the entirety of an existing farm two to three feet away from the primary fence, with the intent of preventing wild and farmed deer from having any physical contact. Erecting a double fence could entail using an identical fence to the current primary one, shade cloth attached directly onto a primary fence, a fivestrand electric fence, wooden fence or various other pre-approved options. The cost, the time and perhaps the unfairness of it all has added to the hesitancy of complying, said Scott Fier, President of the Minnesota Deer Farmers Association. “In my opinion, nowhere does it state that putting up a secondary fence is a law. And additional fences have been proven in the industry to be ineffective in controlling CWD and impossible to manage with property lines, easements, difficult terrain and wooded areas,” Fier said. “If the DNR wants a fence up, they can pay for it as we the producers have already paid for and erected a fence that meets the standards that are in the statute.” However, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, as a state agency, is obligated to enforce laws that are passed by the state legislature and if noncompliance is found

they are obligated to seek compliance, said Eric Nelson, Interim MDNR Farmed and Feral Program Supervisor. The MDNR is willing to consider and potentially approve other fencing options from the nine deer farms that have yet to comply, said MDNR Conservation Officer Lieutenant Chad Thesing. Currently, these nine deer farms have been issued Notices of Violation as well as a $500 Civil Penalty Fine being processed in court at the time this article was written. Should the deer farms continue to remain in violation of Statute 35.155, their farm license will eventually be revoked. “I can see the hardships involved in this,” Thesing, 50, said. “At this point, most of the other deer farms who complied are using shade cloth or an identical fence,” he said. “Very few are using an electric fence. My job is to enforce the laws whether I personally agree or not.”

If approved by the MDNR, additional forms of double fencing could include a wrought iron fence or perhaps a welded steel fence. Any deer farmer wishing to propose their idea for a secondary fence should schedule a meeting with Lt. Thesing while there is still time. While the horizon has appeared bleak for some time in Minnesota for deer farmers, there has also been welcomed Democratic support from Senator Aric Putnam, District 14 and Chairman of the Minnesota AG Committee. Putnam, passed a bill out of his committee and off the senate floor that strikes out the language of "prevent physical contact between captive and wild deer.” Fier expressed appreciation for this and to everyone who considers the industry’s point of view.

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DREAM GENOMICS

DEEP INTO PHASE TWO OF CWD CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY

By: Gail Veley • Sponsored by the Illinois Deer Farmer’s Association

ith Phase One for developing a blood test for early CWD detection essentially in their rearview mirror, scientists at Dream Genomics, a visionary biotech firm started in 2023 and based out of Northbrook, Illinois, are now deeply entrenched in Phase Two, Biological Confirmation. This second phase is moving ever closer to finishing up, explained Dr. Gary M. Pusateri, CEO and Founder of Dream Genomics. Biological confirmation, Phase Two, entails gathering sample after sample from virtually anywhere CWD is detected in the U.S. and Canada in whitetails, mule deer and elk, and pinning down the specific genes that distinguish themselves as being the answer to the diagnosis of CWD. Phase Two has involved extensive travel, time, effort and research on behalf of Dr. Pusateri as well as Dr. Michael Falduto, Chief Technology Officer and Founder and Dr. Scott Magnuson, Chief Scientific Officer and Founder. The more testing that takes place during Phase Two, the closer they come to being 90 percent accurate

(or better) as to which specific genes reveal the presence of CWD, regardless of the location a deer farmer raises deer. As this dedicated trio of scientists works diligently to finish Phase Two and continue onto Phase Three, Assay Development, they are very grateful for those investors who have allowed their work to move forward. However, they are also hopeful that new investors will contribute in order to more fully guarantee their work can be seen to full fruition. “We aren’t connected to a university,” Dr. Pusateri explained. “We currently rely on support from our investors, grants and self-funding for everything that we do.” To come full circle in their gamechanging quest, Phase Three, the final phase, involves moving accurate and targeted samples onto PCR plates. Assuming CWD positive genes become paired down to the fewest specific and acutely accurate number needed for testing, more tests could be run per plate, therefore not costing a deer farmer as much money to test their herd. “This is why Phase Two is so important,” Dr. Pusateri explained.

“We want to ultimately be so accurate that both time and money are saved. We are doing whatever it takes to be at that point. We are looking at a 24hour turnaround once Phase Three becomes fully operational.” If any deer association, private individual or corporation is interested in donating or investing in Dream Genomics research, please contact Dr. Pusateri at his office at 847-2919602 or his cell phone at 715-8917878 or email him at gpusateri@ dreamgx.com. Potential investors can also check out the website at www:dreamgx.com. “The best part about supporting our research is that you have two very large opportunities to gain,” Dr. Pusateri said. “One, in making live diagnostics available to all and helping the entire industry permanently move forward. Secondly, with potential personal gains from investing in the company. If the USDA accredits this test, a deer that tests negative could potentially be moved anywhere, opening doors for deer farmers to completely flourish rather than be held back by regulations.”

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THE MOST PRODUCTIVE WAY TO START AND OPERATE A HUNTING PRESERVE By: Gail Veley • Whitetails of Louisiana

roviding an unforgettable and unique high fence hunting experience might appear much easier than it actually is. Several important factors are key in starting and operating a successful hunting preserve. The first is “location, location, location,” offers Russel Ogle, Manager of Double Play Hunting Preserve in Athens, Ohio. “Convenient land choice can make things a lot easier if you’re catering food in or having the local AG Department or DNR out for a fence inspection.”

field. That’s not ethical.” Bollinger, who has served for 14 years in a consulting role for those interested in starting a preserve, knows firsthand how important it is to follow correct protocol. “What a lot of people don’t realize is that operating a preserve becomes just like deer farming, because you need barns and tractors and if you approach it like farming, it’s advantageous to do it that way. For example, your interior fence for any pens you might have could be paid for by the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NCRS).”

Secondly, you need to know who is going to have jurisdiction over your preserve. Is it your state Department of AG or your state DNR? What is the minimum size your preserve is allowed to be? “In most states exotics fall under the department of AG and whitetails fall under the DNR,” said Brandon Bollinger of 2 Brothers Whitetails in Loranger, Louisiana. “In some states the minimum preserve size is 100 acres and in other states the minimum size is 250 acres. You’re also required to have 60/40 cover versus open land for your animals. You can’t have a preserve that’s merely on something like a soybean

Exterior fencing (an expense which falls on the preserve owner) should be eight feet tall and very sturdy, yet not overly rigid. Preparation to install a fence could involve extensive tree removal. “Make sure you have a 60-foot lane, 30 feet on each side for mowing,” Ogle said. “It’s important that the fence is clear for the sake of repairs or trees not falling on it. As far as the actual fence itself, hotwire should be placed on the bottom to keep predators out. You can use single fence posts every 15 feet using eight-inch pine posts, but steel pipe posts might hold up longer.”

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Management of the animals inside the fence becomes top priority once your property is inspected and approved for operation. And while most species found in a preserve can potentially co-exist if introduced before the rut, Bollinger does not recommend mixing fallow deer with whitetails, as fallow deer will crowd a feeder or food plot, making it harder for whitetails to eat. Elk and red stag tend to be aggressive towards each other and may fight as well as interbreed. Axis deer and whitetails mingle really well, with axis deer being subordinate to whitetails. Managing and improving the genetics of your livestock can also be an easier task with interior pens, where breeding procedures and fawning can take place. “The does will tend to want to return and be easier to catch up to repeat this process year after year,” Bollinger said. Managing water and food sources is yet another important component. If possible, growing your own food with clover and alfalfa rich food plots is less expensive and unlike grain, is less of an attractant for unwanted visitors like raccoons or opossums. Water sources are

vitally important as well. Having a tranquil pond with ample water in the middle of a preserve may seem like a great idea “but the deer need to be able to find it,” Bollinger. “You need to place water buckets along your fence line because newcomers will walk the fence for days and can die of dehydration.” These animal husbandry practices also extend to having a good relationship with a veterinarian, as preserve owners and managers are required to take a Chemical Immobilization course on darting, and have a veterinarian prescription, in order to get medication for darting. While the details and efforts to successfully run a preserve are immense, it is perhaps equal to booking hunts and providing comfortable accommodation. “I think the Number One most important thing in attracting hunters is having a nice lodge with separate bedrooms that include their own bathrooms,” said Daniel Thomas of Daniel Thomas Whitetails in Springhill, Louisiana. “I’ve seen it where there’s one bathroom down the hall. It’s much nicer to have your own. We are charging good money for the hunt, and a lot of the value depends on the accommodations.” Thomas feels Number Two involves providing a covered outdoor firepit where everyone can gather outside to share their stories. “A lot of homes have indoor fireplaces. You

are there at the lodge to do things differently and not be inside,” Thomas shared. “Most of the time guests want to be outside.” Number Three, provide hunting stands that are large enough for two hunters (or a hunter and their son or daughter) and their guide, to all comfortably hunt from. “A normal stand might be 5 x 6-feet, but I like a 6 x 8-foot stand,” Thomas added. Number Four, find quality guides for your hunts. “Some who have hunted their whole life or are natural outdoorsmen don’t need much training,” Thomas said. “But some who aren’t as experienced might need a bit more training in being able to judge a quality animal and determine the best fit for what a hunter is looking for.” Number Five, provide adequate meals and refreshments. Dinners might feature Steak Night, Seafood Night or Italian Night. Lighter meals are generally better before hunts, while larger meals are generally consumed after hunts.

We offer a hot tub, pool tables, shuffleboard, arcade games, poker and a game room.” Among other important things, have a legally approved liability waiver and provide sufficient refrigeration and a sanitary spot if you are processing your deer on site. Be able to recommend a good taxidermist. Learn the importance of trail camera placement and drone utilization so you can take inventory of your deer, Bollinger emphasized. “Join NADeFA, understand DNA, GEBV’s and what NADR is. Join your state deer association and keep up with regulations and how they may affect you. And have a thorough understanding of stocker bucks and prices.”

Placement of your hunting lodge is again based on “location, location, location,” Ogle said. “Choose an area at the highest point of the property for the best views. And make it a family-friendly place. People are there to relax and you need to cater to the customer. Occasionally, hunters need to convince their wives into coming along so they themselves can have a chance to come.

39 39

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If you would like your farm or business featured on our business card pages, email digital pdf file or scanned image (must be readable resolution) of your business card to: office@pdfa.com This gives PDFA members a way to reach out to one another for services and to buy or sell deer! There may be limited pages for business cards, overflow would be placed in the next issue and cards will be rotated each quarter.

James Weaver 330-466-8712

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Larry Weaver 330-275-6056

Your Business Card HERE! 43

Dana & Ella Hoover 4456 Champlin Rd. Penn Yan, NY 14527 P 315.595.2202 F 315.595.8863 dana@ibyfax.com Raising Quality Whitetails Bucks, Does, & Fawns For Sale

S/S -0.170879 HWR THE GENERAL / XX TRIPLE OUGHT / BAMBI 727 / DR. D

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Alabama First State to Move Deer Outside of CWD Management Zones

By: Gail Veley • Sponsored by the Alabama Deer Association

positive case of CWD is not causing quite the angst it used to for Alabama deer farmers. In March (2026) options officially became available for allowing Alabama deer farmers to continue selling and moving deer, should a CWD positive case be found nearby in the wild or another farm. Through the passage of House Bill 509, and the work of the Alabama Board of Director’s, Alabama has become the first state to allow for the movement of deer outside of CWD Management Zones. Management zones, decided upon by The Alabama Department of Conservation, are placed around areas where CWD is found. Every deer farm located within a designated zone, the duration for which lasts five years, is affected. To date, there is currently one CWD Management Zone in Alabama, located in the northwest corner of the state and encompassing 2.5 counties. About 15 to 16 deer farms are located within this zone. However, these farms can still do “business as usual” if they follow the protocols of one of three options available to them. The first option is to live test 50% of their herd every three years. The second option is to place a double fence 10 feet away from where breeding pens are located, and live test 25% of their herd every three years. The third option is to breed towards resistance and to quantify the GEBV’s found within a herd. Any deer that falls below the accepted -.056 value can be moved without further

restrictions, as long as it is live tested within six months. “Option three provides incentive because it would turn out to be less costly and give you much more marketable deer,” said ADA Member Troy Zacchini. “I’d like to personally thank everyone who sat down and took the time in February to make these options a realty. It was a great team effort.” These individuals include Representative Jeff Sorrels, Dr. Misty Edmundson, Associate State Veterinarian for the Alabama Department of Agriculture, Charlanna Skaggs, Deputy Commissioner for the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Chris Lewis, Director of the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Moving forward “most farms are going with the third option,” said ADA President Cameron Odom. “And some have already put up a double fence. But it’s really too soon to tell what everyone is

ultimately going to do. We are grateful for everyone who saw this through.” Before HB 509 was passed in 2025, Alabama deer farmers were required to kill and test 10% of their herd if a CWD positive case was found at their farm or within close proximity to their farm. Farms affected by trace backs were also included, leading Odom in 2016, owner of Five O’s Whitetail Ranch in Citronella, Alabama, to ahis own closed herd. “Now, the entire industry is moving towards breeding for resistance,” Odom said. “The Alabama Department of Conservation does quite a bit of CWD testing during hunting season, and a whole new group of deer farms could fall under a management zone if a positive case is found. We’ve wanted to make it easier to raise and sell deer. Dr. Seabury’s science was considered and embraced in developing the options that now pave the way for us to do that. Alabama deer farmers are very grateful.”

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Ingredients

Venison Crunchwraps

•

1 pound Ground Venison

Sauce

For the Crunchwraps

•

2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce

•

½ cup Mayonnaise

•

1 teaspoon Salt

•

2 tablespoons Diced Pickles (or Dill Pickle Relish)

4 Burrito Size Flour Tortillas, Warmed Fo

•

4 Taco Size Flour Tortillas

•

1 teaspoon Garlic Powder

•

1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard

•

4 Tostadas

•

1 teaspoon Onion Powder

•

1 tablespoon Ketchup

•

½ teaspoon Black Pepper

•

2 teaspoons White Vinegar

8 Slices American or Cheddar Cheese

•

2 tablespoons Water

•

1/2 teaspoon Paprika

•

2 tablespoons Finely Chopped White Onion

•

2 tablespoons Diced Pickles

•

½ cup finely Shredded Lettuce

Instructions 1. Make the sauce: in a small bowl, add mayonnaise, diced pickles, yellow, mustard, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and paprika. Mix the ingredients together and then sit in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. 2. Preheat a large skillet or griddle to medium high heat with a tablespoon of oil. Once preheated, add in the ground venison and cook it until it’s brown breaking it up as it cooks. Season all over with Worcestershire sauce salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Add in water and mix until the seasonings are well distributed. Removed from heat. 3. To assemble the crunch wraps, start with one warmed burrito size tortilla. It’s important that the burrito is warmed so that it doesn’t rip while wrapping. Add a thin layer of the sauce, then top with 1/4 of the ground venison and add two slices of cheese. Top with the tostada, add some more sauce and top with shredded lettuce, diced onion and diced pickles. Top the filling it a taco sized tortilla and wrap up the edges of the burrito sized tortilla around the taco size tortilla so that they are overlapping. 4. Continuous assembling the remaining crunch wraps until you run out of ground venison. 5. Take the assembled crunch wraps back to your skillet or griddle. Place them down and let them cook for one or two minutes to seal, adding oil to the skillet as needed. Flip over and let cook for another minute on the other side to toast it. 6. Serve warm and enjoy. 51

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Bull Barn Fence Factory................................. 36

NADR - North American Deer Registry....... 32

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Owens Farms..............................Center Spread

Cervid Health Management.......................... 36

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Prime Acres....................................................... 34

DanInject USA................................................... 40

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EZid, LLC............................................................ 15

.................... Inside Front Cover, 5, Back Cover

G3 Whitetails.........................Inside Back Cover

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Hatada................................................................ 48

TDM Whitetails................................................. 41

HeadGear, LLC................................................. 20

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K3 Land & Whitetail Services, Water Tower

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